TT: You climbed the Everest in May 2012 to become the second woman from Jharkhand, after Premlata Agrawal. This May, Bengal Everester Chanda Gayen and two sherpas went missing while on an expedition to Kanchenjungha. Your thoughts?

Binita: I interacted with Chanda twice in Delhi and Calcutta on our common passion. We are climbers of the same generation. I found her very warm and approachable. I am still praying for her

Recently, the Himalayan range has seen a lot of accidents. The April 18 avalanche killed 16 sherpas in the birth centenary year of Tenzing Norgay.

As an Everester, I know the immense contribution sherpas make to every trek. Without their guidance, climbers can’t advance an inch. The April tragedy has pained every mountaineer

How can tragedies be minimised?

Climbers and sherpas take necessary safety measures. But I do want to ask authorities to restrict the growing rush of amateur climbing teams to Himalayas. Mountains have their own load-bearing capacity.

Everest to you is...

Life-changing. I was a farmer’s daughter from Kesosora in Seraikela-Kharsawan with big dreams. After I climbed Everest, I became confident. I work with Tata Steel Rural Development Society. Girls of my village look up to me

Once the highest peak is scaled, what remains?

The world’s seven highest peaks. I want to enter the mountaineering hall of fame

How did you get started?

When I first heard about Bachendri Pal, I said, this is what I want to do

She’s your inspiration?

My icon, mentor and friend

Can mountaineering be a career option?

Yes, trained mountaineering and adventure instructors are needed. Also, a mountaineer is physically fit and a good choice for police and defence services

Are basic and advanced courses a must for climbers?

Yes, there’s no room for mistakes

Any message for Jharkhand government?

I wish our state had promoted mountaineering. Tribals are natural climbers